Enjoy a day in the rain in New Westminster

When I first became friends with the man who would eventually be my husband, I was quite impressed by a particular string of words he'd used to talk about rainy Metro Vancouver days. 

"It's fine weather for ducks," he said—and I thought it was the most brilliant thing ever. 

What I'd later learn is that it was a bit of a cliche, but I still thought it clever. And while it may be better known as the title of a catchy song by British electronic music duo Lemon Jelly, I would like to point out that it isn't just ducks that can enjoy a rainy day in New Westminster—we humans can, too. 

Duck watching at Tipperary Park

The ducks at Tipperary Park have some of the biggest personalities you'll ever meet. They do tend to be fed (which ideally shouldn't be done) so if you're even crinkling the wrapper on a treat for yourself, a warning that they will come up to you and ask for food. 

What I love about visiting Tipperary when it's raining is spotting the really young kiddos who are getting to know the different kinds of animals. You'll want to bring a raincoat, as the benches can get wet—but otherwise, sit back, relax, and enjoy the birds as they glide through the small pond just steps away from city hall. 

Watching boats go by at Quayside...

There are plenty of places to sit along Quayside (again, we recommend the raincoat), from benches to beach-style chairs. The length of the Fraser River is certainly a lovely walk in the sun, but there is something so calming and soothing about it on a rainy day.

One of the things I like to do is watch large logs crash up against the beach, which definitely intensifies if boats go by. While it's common to see seagulls hanging out along the sandier parts of the water, you may sometimes be able to spot a heron or two as it tries to find a bite to eat. 

...or along the Queensborough Perimeter Trail

Hop on the Q2Q ferry and make your way over to the Queensborough Perimeter Trail. Most of the benches aren't all that covered, but this makes for a great rainy day walk. Even in the rain, you're typically still able to see downtown New West and Poplar Island from here. 

Warm up with a mug of tea, hot chocolate, or coffee

I get cold easily when even one raindrop touches my hand. Fortunately, there are dozens of spots in the city to grab a great cup of tea, coffee, or hot chocolate so you can warm up.

If you happen to be at River Market, the River Market Mist from Great Wall Tea Co. is highly recommended—this beverage is the shop's version of the London Fog. Additionally, you can't go wrong with the chai latte at Tre Galli Gelato Cafe, and Pamola Bakery also sells coffee and tea to stay or to go. 

Here are some other only-in-New-West spots that offer coffee, tea, and hot chocolate:

• Uptown: Flavor Balance, Waves

• West End: Happy Mom's Cafe, Kaminis Corner Cafe

• Downtown: Serious Coffee, Passenger Cafe

• Sapperton: Take Five, Fratelli Bakery

• Queensborough: Take THE Cake, Frankie G's

Escape the raindrops with some indoor options

There are plenty of places in New West to explore on a rainy day. While there are certainly tons of things to discover not far from the various SkyTrain stops, there are also some fantastic options you can walk, bike, or community shuttle to. 

The 103 (Victoria Hill/New West Station/Quayside) and 105 (Uptown/New Westminster) shuttles stop right in front of Irving House, which offers tours, though you'll need to book an appointment in advance. You can also visit the Royal City Curling Club's bistro, arguably one of the best kept secrets in the city. There is also an assortment of places to check out within Queen's Park, including the art gallery.